In Greenwood, a 16-year-old is facing charges as an adult related to a fatal shooting and robbery in Johnson County.
Da’Zaria Dyson’s case has been approved to be waived to adult court by a juvenile magistrate in response to a motion from the Johnson County Prosecutor’s Office.
In the case related to the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Ethan David in December 2023, Dyson has been accused of murder, aiding in armed robbery, and conspiracy to commit armed robbery.
Lance Hamner, the Prosecutor of Johnson County, stated that Dyson would be tried as an adult.
Previously, Quincy Stringer faced charges as an adult in the case and was arrested.
According to witnesses, two individuals were observed fleeing the vicinity. Authorities identified Stringer and Dyson as potential culprits, with an acquaintance of the defendants informing the police that the duo discussed the prospect of robbing “their plug,” which is a colloquial term for a drug transaction.
At the time of the shooting, Dyson was just 15 years old.
According to prosecutors, Dyson and Stringer expressed regret for not noticing a backpack that was found with David in the aftermath.
According to the magistrate, the statements exhibited an utter lack of concern for life and were made the day after the incident when Da’Zaria had ample time to contemplate the gravity of the situation.
During the hearing, Dyson’s family members testified in her favor, portraying her as a “good kid” who is susceptible to the influence of her peers.
In the end, the magistrate concluded that Dyson’s rehabilitation options were limited within the juvenile justice system. As a result, the case was moved to adult court.
According to court records, Dyson underwent an initial hearing on June 5. A pretrial conference has been scheduled for July 11, followed by a jury trial on August 5.